Food & Drink

Carb Overload: Virginia Beach’s Top 10 Carbonara Destinations!

If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, then you must have heard of carbonara. This classic dish originated from Rome and has become a staple in Italian restaurants worldwide. Carbonara is a pasta dish made with eggs, cheese, guanciale, and black pepper.

It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can warm your belly and satisfy your cravings. And if you're in Virginia Beach, you're in luck! The city has some of the best places for carbonara that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Finding the best carbonara in Virginia Beach can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the area. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places for carbonara in Virginia Beach.

From cozy family-owned restaurants to upscale dining spots, we'll cover it all. So, whether you're a local or a tourist, you'll know where to go for your next carbonara fix.

We'll take a closer look at what makes a great carbonara dish, the different variations you can find in Virginia Beach, and what to expect when you visit some of the best places for carbonara in the city.

So, get ready to salivate over some delicious pasta dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

1. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
733 Lynnhaven Mall Loop, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants is a fantastic American restaurant that serves delicious carbonara.

The friendly and informative wait staff provides excellent service, and the environment is clean and comfortable. The food is cooked to perfection and served beautifully.

The wine menu is extensive and pairs well with the food. The restaurant also offers unique appetizers and desserts that are worth trying.

Whether dining alone or with a group, Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal.

2. Yard House

Yard House
4549 Commerce St, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Google Maps)

Yard House is a high-end sports-bar chain that serves New American fare and an extensive list of draft beers. The atmosphere is cozy and perfect for a night out with friends.

The staff is friendly and attentive. Their carbonara is a must-try, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.

The menu has a variety of options to cater to all dietary needs, including vegetarian options. The prices are reasonable, and the service is prompt.

The only downside is the limited parking options, but it's worth the hassle. Yard House is a great place to enjoy a delicious carbonara and drinks with friends.

3. Marchese Italian Market & Cafe

Marchese Italian Market & Cafe
1700 Pleasure House Rd #106, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Google Maps)

Marchese Italian Market & Cafe is a hidden gem for those seeking authentic Italian cuisine.

The owner and chef are both from Italy, ensuring that every dish is made with traditional techniques and fresh ingredients.

The menu offers a variety of Italian dishes, including a delicious carbonara pasta. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making diners feel like they are part of the family.

Marchese Italian Market & Cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Italy.

4. Gino's Pizzeria By Maurizio

Gino's Pizzeria By Maurizio
1479 General Booth Blvd # 102, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Gino's Pizzeria By Maurizio is a must-visit for those craving authentic New York-style pizza.

Their carbonara is a standout dish, creamy and flavorful. The staff is attentive and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience.

The restaurant also offers a variety of other Italian dishes, all of which are delicious. The prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.

Whether dining in or taking out, Gino's Pizzeria By Maurizio is a great choice for a satisfying meal.

5. Angelo's Italian Restaurant

Angelo's Italian Restaurant
1485 General Booth Blvd #120, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Looking for a cozy Italian restaurant with authentic dishes and friendly staff, look no further than Angelo's Italian Restaurant.

This family-owned and run establishment offers classic Italian fare, including delicious carbonara.

The waitstaff is knowledgeable about the menu and the history of the restaurant, and the food is well seasoned and prepared with expertise.

Don't miss out on the tiramisu for dessert. Make a reservation and be prepared to be amazed and well fed!

6. Mangia Qui Italian Bistro

Mangia Qui Italian Bistro
550 Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Google Maps)

Mangia Qui Italian Bistro is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Italian cuisine. The carbonara is a standout dish, with perfectly cooked pasta and a flavorful sauce.

The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with attentive and knowledgeable staff.

The menu offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, and the wine list is impressive. Prices are on the higher side, but portions are generous and well worth the cost.

Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a family outing, Mangia Qui Italian Bistro is an excellent choice.

7. Zia Marie Restaurant

Zia Marie Restaurant
2272 W Great Neck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Google Maps)

Zia Marie Restaurant offers exceptional Italian cuisine with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The menu boasts a variety of dishes, including their delicious carbonara.

The portions are generous and the ingredients are fresh, making for a truly authentic Italian dining experience.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable meal.

With a great selection of wines to complement the food, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Italian food.

8. Reginella's Italian Ristorante

Reginella's Italian Ristorante
4000 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

Reginella's Italian Ristorante is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, but their carbonara is a standout.

The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta, and the dish is generously topped with crispy bacon.

The portions are large and satisfying, making it a great value for the price. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with checkered tablecloths adding to the charm.

The service is attentive and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience. For anyone looking for a delicious carbonara, Reginella's Italian Ristorante is the place to go.

9. Isle of Capri

Isle Of Capri
3900 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Google Maps)

Isle of Capri is an upscale Italian restaurant that offers a variety of seafood and pasta dishes.

The sleek interior design provides a great atmosphere for fine dining, while the sea vistas add to the experience. The tableside Caesar salad is a must-try, and the homemade pasta dishes are delicious.

Although the prices are higher than average, the quality of the food and the view make it worth it.

The wait staff could be more attentive, but overall, Isle of Capri is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

10. The Comfy Belly

The Comfy Belly
1801 Pleasure House Rd #110, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (Google Maps)

The Comfy Belly is a hidden gem for those in search of delicious carbonara.

This cozy diner offers hefty portions of comfort food, including top-of-the-line pizza and mac n' cheese bowls.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is quick. The outdoor deck provides a great spot to enjoy your meal in the fresh air.

The Comfy Belly is a must-visit for locals and out-of-town visitors alike.